Bangkok has a variety of supermarkets catering to locals and expatriates, offering a diverse selection of local and imported products. If you’re in the central areas of Sukhumvit, Sathorn, or Silom, several Western-style supermarkets provide high-quality grocery options. Below is a guide to the best ones in these areas.
1. Villa Market – Best for Imported Goods
Locations: Sukhumvit Soi 33, Soi 49, and multiple other locations
Villa Market has been a go-to supermarket for expatriates since 1973, providing a wide range of imported goods. Most expats in Thailand just consider Villa Market more of an American imported supermarket whereas it’s biggest rival Tops is British. They offer specialty items such as American peanut butter, Australian beef, and European cheeses that are hard to find elsewhere.
Pros:
- Extensive selection of imported food products
- Organic and specialty health foods available
- Good selection of wines and craft beers
Cons:
- Higher prices compared to local supermarkets
- Some locations can feel cramped due to space limitations
2. Tops Market – Best for Convenience and Variety
Locations: Sukhumvit Soi 19 (Robinson Department Store), CentralWorld, and other department store basements
Tops Market, under the Central Group, offers a mix of local and international products. The Sukhumvit Soi 19 branch is conveniently located in the basement of Robinson Department Store near Asoke BTS station. It has a bakery, fresh meats, and organic products.
Pros:
- High-quality fresh produce, meats, and seafood
- Member discounts and promotions
- Convenient locations in department stores
- Shoppers can accumulate points on Central Group’s “One Card” by shopping at Tops which can eventually be used for discounts on any products the Central group sells at the big variety of Bangkok luxury shopping malls.
Cons:
- More expensive than local grocery stores
- Some locations have less variety compared to Gourmet Market
3. Foodland – Best for 24/7 Shopping
Location: Sukhumvit Soi 5 (and other branches across Bangkok)
Foodland is ideal for night owls and early risers. Located in Sukhumvit Soi 5, it offers a solid selection of Western products and fresh produce. It also features the popular “Took Lae Dee” restaurant inside the store, known for freshly made affordable meals perfect for a night cap after a long night of social activities with friends.
Pros:
- Open 24/7, making it great for late-night shopping
- More affordable prices compared to high-end supermarkets
- Includes a cheap and popular restaurant inside
- Good selection of recently frozen steaks
Cons:
- Smaller selection of imported goods compared to Villa Market
- The surrounding area (Soi 5) can feel less safe at night
4. Gourmet Market – Best for Luxury Grocery Shopping
Locations: Terminal 21, Emporium, EmQuartier
Gourmet Market is a premium supermarket offering high-end imported goods, fresh produce, and organic food. The Terminal 21 branch is smaller but well-stocked, while the Emporium and EmQuartier locations offer a more extensive range of gourmet products.
Pros:
- Excellent quality fresh produce and imported goods
- Premium deli, bakery, and seafood selections
- Spacious and attractive store layout
Cons:
- More expensive than other supermarkets
- Limited locations outside shopping malls
5. Central Food Hall – Best for Ultimate Luxury Grocery Shopping
Location: Central Embassy Shopping Mall
Central Food Hall, located in the prestigious Central Embassy shopping mall, is Bangkok’s most luxurious supermarket. It offers an upscale shopping experience with premium imported goods, fresh organic produce, gourmet delicacies, and a world-class selection of cheeses and wines.
Pros:
- Exclusive and high-quality international products
- Elegant and spacious shopping environment
- Specialty counters featuring fresh seafood, meats, and delicatessen items
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited to a few locations in high-end malls
6. Lotus’s (Formerly Tesco Lotus) – Best for Budget Shoppers
Location: Various branches, including Rama IV Road (near Sathorn and Silom)
While the quality and amount of luxury imported foods pales in comparison to the aforementioned supermarkets, Lotus’s is a budget-friendly supermarket with a variety of local and imported products. While it lacks the extensive international selection of Villa Market or Gourmet Market, it remains one of the most affordable options in Bangkok for fresh fruits and vegetables as well as dairy and meat.
Pros:
- Lower prices on local goods
- Many locations across Bangkok
- Wide range of household essentials
Cons:
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- Fewer international products
- Some branches can feel crowded
Honorable Mentions
Makro – Best for Bulk Shopping
Makro is a wholesale supermarket ideal for those looking to buy in bulk at lower prices. It offers a wide range of local and imported goods, including fresh meats, seafood, and dairy products. However, Makro primarily caters to businesses and requires membership for some discounts.
GO Wholesale – Best for Restaurant and Business Owners
GO Wholesale is another excellent wholesale option with a focus on premium imported ingredients. It is particularly popular among restaurant owners and chefs due to its high-quality meats, seafood, and international specialty products.
Online Ordering and Delivery Services
Most of these supermarkets offer online ordering through their websites or apps, providing convenience for those who prefer home delivery.
- Villa Market – Offers online shopping with home delivery via their website and mobile app.
- Website: www.villamarket.com
- App: Available on iOS and Android
- Tops Market – Online shopping and delivery services available through their website and app.
- Website: www.tops.co.th
- App: Available on iOS and Android
- Foodland – Does not have a full online ordering system but offers phone orders and delivery services through third-party apps like GrabMart.
- Website: www.foodland.co.th
- Gourmet Market – Online shopping available via The Mall Group’s website and mobile app.
- Website: www.gourmetmarketthailand.com
- App: Available on iOS and Android
- Lotus’s (Formerly Tesco Lotus) – Provides online shopping and delivery through their website and app.
- Website: www.lotuss.com
- App: Available on iOS and Android
- Central Food Hall – Offers online shopping with a premium home delivery service.
- Website: www.centralfoodhall.com
- App: Available on iOS and Android
For expatriates and travelers in Bangkok, these supermarkets offer an excellent range of Western and international groceries, both in-store and online. Whether you are looking for specialty products, organic goods, or budget-friendly options, you can easily find a store that suits your needs.
